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CARLSBAD, CA – It’s easy to view the all-new fourth-generation Honda CR-V as another miss by the No.2 Japanese auto maker.

Like the ’12 Civic compact car, on which the cross/utility vehicle is based, it has carryover technology, fair driving dynamics and an interior filled with hard plastic.

But the “cool moms” Honda is targeting with the ’12 model likely will appreciate the added interior volume and easier maneuverability, plus new creature comforts and increased fuel economy.

The CR-V became the best-selling utility vehicle, truck- or car-based, in the U.S. in 2007 as sales grew to 200,000 units annually.

Although some critics chided the auto maker upon the third-generation’s 2006 debut for keeping the CR-V small, when competitors were growing bigger, the formula worked for Honda.

The fourth-gen CR-V loses an inch in length and almost as much in height from its predecessor, but Honda has boosted interior volume.

The cargo floor now is an inch lower, simplifying the process of loading large objects such as baby strollers.

Owners will like being able to fold the CR-V’s 60/40 split rear seats two ways: via a new cargo-compartment handle or a release at the base of each seat. Seats now fold flat, thanks to bottom cushions that separate from back cushions and flip forward.